Soothing means calming a crying or unsettled baby, for example by holding, rocking, shushing, offering a dummy, walking or skin-to-skin contact. What works varies from baby to baby, and sometimes a combination works best.
What you can do
- Check basic needs first: hunger, nappy, temperature and tiredness.
- Use slow, rhythmic movement and a calm, low voice.
- Reduce noise and light if your baby seems overstimulated.
- If you feel overwhelmed, put your baby down safely and take a short break.
When to talk to your doctor
See your doctor if your baby cries in a way that sounds different, cannot be soothed for long periods, has a fever, or seems unwell.
